Why do I have to wait to get my bottom braces? A guide for London patients (Part 3)
24 November 2024
5 min read
"Upper Braces Before Lower Braces": Your Full Guide
+ Part 2: Discomfort and sensitivity
In part 1, we focused on the common orthodontic practice of fitting braces on the top arch followed – often several weeks later – by the bottom arch.
And in part 2, we discussed the comparative levels of discomfort you can expect after each placement.
In our final instalment, we will explore the key differences in eating adjustments after the first and second brace fittings.
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER GETTING BRACES FITTED
Eating with fixed braces can be challenging to begin with.
Eating adjustments after first brace placement
After the first placement, you still have one arch free from braces.
This makes chewing easier and also means you may still be able to handle some tougher food.
The initial discomfort from having one arch fitted – versus both at once – is more manageable and helps you to ease into a new eating routine.
Changes to expect after lower braces fitting
After the fitting of the second brace, both arches are under pressure, which makes eating more of a challenge.
Soft foods to eat with braces
In the first few days, soft foods such as soup, mashed potato, yoghurt and scrambled eggs are ideal.
Having braces on both arches calls for a more mindful approach to eating.
FOOD TO AVOID WITH BRACES
Please be especially cautious when it comes to hard, sticky or crunchy foods.
Examples of foods to avoid with braces
Foods to avoid include nuts, ice lollies, chewing gum, raw apples or carrots, corn on the cob, crusty bread, ribs or chicken on the bone.
Avoid anything that could cause damage to your braces or brackets.
UPPER AND LOWER BRACES FITTING: FINAL THOUGHTS
In summary, orthodontists often take this staged approach for reasons including tackling overjet problems early and also improving aesthetics.
Initial discomfort after your orthodontist fits your upper brace is common but in some cases can be less intense after the placement of the second arch.
And today we’ve concluded the series by taking a deeper dive into the particular challenges of eating after each fitting.
We hope this knowledge helps you to make a confident, informed decision about orthodontic treatment.
Orthodontic treatment at Wytes London
At Wytes London, we can help to boost your confidence with a straighter, more beautiful smile.
Our orthodontists can use fixed or lingual braces to give you exceptional results in an efficient, cost-effective way.
